Happyness

Happyness, while not a band for those of us pedantic about spelling, have produced another EP ‘Tunnel Vision On Your Part’. The alternative gents from London’s five tracks are sure to please existing fans and may well win over some new ones in the process. A dreamy, relaxed effort, there’s subtle moments from varying influences throughout.

From the opening of ‘Anna, Lisa Calls’, Jon EE Allan’s powdery soft voice is so easy to listen to. With airy backing vocals added in, the understated sound is obvious from the outset. Despite the sunny, American sound, the band’s modesty and absence from the spotlight shows their roots are found in the grey but incomparable London.

Their quirkiness in part owed to their unusual way with words (the band won NME’S best lyrics of 2015 for part of ‘Montreal Rock Band Somewhere’), the London trio’s lyrics are poetic throughout. While surfer cool songs like ‘Friend Of The Revolution’ could soundtrack any Californian TV show and reference several American locations, your imagination will take you wherever you want to go when you listen.

The light cymbals of ‘Surfer Girl’ magically sound like the sea lapping on the shore of your favourite idyllic spot. You know those clichéd visions of friends sitting around a campfire while someone plays acoustic guitar? That’s it, right here. There’s nothing cheesy about it, however, sounding simply romantic instead. With lyrics like “I will make your dreams come true ‘til you love me”, it’s twee but understated and a perfect moment of reflection.

‘Tunnel Vision On Your Part’ is a beautiful ending. Over six and a half minutes of easy-going bass and agreeable acoustic guitar, it draws the impressive EP to a close. A lengthy instrumental section leads into the repeated phrase “as the credits roll forever” and a disjointed piano, adding an unnerving touch to the song’s conclusion.

There’s a touch of The Velvet Underground in Happyness’ accessible, old alternative sound. Subtle, romantic and soothing, it’s an unexpected delight. Even if you wouldn’t think you’d be a fan, have a little listen and you might just change your mind; this EP is a gem.